A spokeswoman from Gate Gourmet, the Dutch caterer used by Delta, has said that the company is cooperating fully with investigators. Christina Ulosevich added that "details of this matter must remain confidential".

Gate Gourmet is a subsidiary of Swiss-based gategroup Holding AG, one of the largest independent global providers of airline passenger products and services.

The airline Delta has released this statement in response to reports that sewing needles were found in its in-flight food: "Delta is taking this matter extremely seriously and is cooperating with local and federal authorities who are investigating the incident.

"Delta has taken immediate action with our in-flight caterer at Amsterdam to ensure the safety and quality of the food we provide onboard our aircraft."